Calvary Orthodox Presbyterian Church of Harrisville, PA. came into existence in 1966 as a result of the joining together of the New Hope O.P.C. of Branchton and Faith O.P.C. of Harrisville.  These two congregations had been one pastoral charge for many years in the Presbyterian Church in the U.S.A. They were organized as particular churches of our denomination under the leadership of the Rev. Robert L. Atwell in the first year of the denomination’s existence, and continued to share pastors until their union.In 1966, under the leadership of the Rev. George Morton, the two congregations united and chose the name “Calvary Orthodox Presbyterian Church”.    

On May 1, 1966 ground was broken for a new building to serve the needs of the congregation. New Hope O.P. Church and Faith O.P. Church held joint services beginning in January 1966 in Faith Church building.  (New Hope congregation actually met with Faith Church the last Sunday in December as their fuel oil had been stolen.)  The two congregations officially united February 14, 1966. Harrisville had 99 adults and 56 covenant children. New Hope had 43 adults  and 21 covenant children. Total 142 adults and 77 covenant children or a grand total of 219 persons.  

Mrs. Kathleen Speer donated land for the building. The new building, larger, more attractive, with better facilities and located on the main road through Harrisville, has helped our witness in the area. The groundbreaking service for Calvary Church building was held May 1, 1966. Rev. George Morton (pastor), Elton Brown (President of the board of Trustees), O.D. Allison, J.E.Atwell, John Speer, William Speer, and 70 people were in attendance. The Hearing for the Charter application was July 28, 1966 before Judge Clyde S. Shumaker. The dedication service for the new Calvary Church building was held March 12, 1967 at 2:30 P.M. Rev. George Morton’s sermon was “If a Man Love Me”. A week of evening services followed.

In May of 1971 a group of parents and interested people formed a Christian School Association. In autumn of 1971 the Christian Public School of Western Pennsylvania began operation with 10 students in grades l through 3. The first term the school met in Grove City and the next two terms at Nashua Church.    During these years parents from Calvary Church were active in support of the school and children from Calvary Church were students.   The school met in Calvary Church since the 1974-75 term, while another school, Jubilee Christian School, continued to meet at Nashua Church. Grades had been added until the school had kindergarten through grade 8.  The first 8th grade class to graduate was in 1978.  Early in 1977 an addition to the church building was completed to house the school. This addtion to the building has been of great benefit to both the school and the congragation.    In 1992, the school was dissolved.

One of the strengths of Calvary Church is that is situated in an where the population is not nearly so transient as in most cities. Many of the charter members stayed there until their death. There are grandchildren great-grandchildren of original members active in Calvary Church.  The influence of Calvary Church reaches beyond our immediate area. One young man born in the church became an O.P.C. Pastor.  Others who joined us in their youth have gone on to become pastors in other Reformed Churches. There are also ruling elders and deacons in the O.P.C. and other Reformed Churches who have been and some continue to be members of Calvary Church. As we look back on the history of Calvary Church it is with gratitude for faithful pastors, for each member God has called to our fellowship, and for His good hand upon us each step of the way.     As we look to the future, it is with confidence that He will build His church, even through our feeble efforts.

Deacon History

Elder History

Clerks of Session

William E. McBride     1936 – 1951
Arthur A. Armour        1951 to 1954
William H. Kiester       1954 to 2003
James D. Bailey            2003 to 2016
John E. Bennett Jr.      2016 – Present

Pastor History

The following pastors have served New Hope and Faith Churches, and after its organization, Calvary Church.

Summer Assistants